Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium (PEN-toe-san pol-ee-SUL-fate SOE-dee-um)

Brand Name(s)

Elmiron

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to pentosan polysulfate sodium or related medicine such as heparin.

How to Use This Medicine

Capsule

Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to take and how often. You should not use more of the medicine or take it more often than your doctor ordered.

Take the medicine with water at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal (unless your doctor tells you differently).

If a dose is missed:

Take the missed dose as soon as possible, unless it is almost time for your next dose.

Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next regular dose.

You should not use two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine

Store the capsules at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.

Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Make sure your doctor knows if you are taking aspirin (including products that may contain aspirin, such as cold medicines or pain relievers) or blood thinners such as Coumadin® or heparin. Pentosan polysulfate taken with these medicines may increase the risk of bleeding problems.

Warnings While Using This Medicine

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk with your doctor before taking this medicine. If you become pregnant while being treated with this medicine, tell your doctor right away.

This medicine is like a weak anticoagulant (blood thinner). It can slow down your blood's ability to make clots, so you may bruise more easily or bleed longer if you are injured. If you have nosebleeds, bleeding from your gums, or unusual bruising, tell your doctor.

Make sure your doctor knows if you have liver disease, spleen problems, any bleeding problems such as hemophilia or stomach ulcers, or if you have polyps or diverticulitis.

Before having any surgery or dental work, make sure you tell your doctor or dentist that you are taking this medicine.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

Bleeding from your gums or nose

Bloody or black bowel movements

Coughing up blood

Bloody vomit or vomit that looks like coffee grounds

Severe stomach pain or diarrhea that does not stop

Unusually heavy menstrual bleeding

Bleeding from cuts or wounds that does not stop

Easy bruising, purple spots on the skin

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

Hair loss

Upset stomach, indigestion, or nausea

Mild stomach pain or diarrhea

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088